Torrential rains have triggered devastating floods across multiple districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, with several casualties feared and widespread damage reported to infrastructure, homes, and farmland.
Local authorities and rescue teams are on high alert as overflowing rivers and flash floods have submerged low-lying areas, swept away roads and bridges, and isolated remote communities. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, districts such as Swat, Dir, and Chitral have been severely affected, while in Gilgit-Baltistan, heavy flooding in valleys and mountain passes has disrupted daily life.
Residents have been forced to evacuate their homes, and rescue efforts are being hampered by ongoing rainfall and landslides. Several people are reported missing, and unconfirmed reports indicate possible fatalities in some of the hardest-hit regions.
Provincial disaster management authorities have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in flood-prone and mountainous areas. Relief camps have been established, and emergency supplies are being dispatched to the affected zones.
Due to recent rainfall, a sudden surge in the stream near Siran Valley Family Park led to a flash flood, trapping several tourists in fast-moving water. Upon receiving the emergency alert, the Rescue 1122 Control Room immediately dispatched a specialised dive team from the Balakot Rescue Point to the scene.
Under the direction of District Emergency Officer Abrar Ali, the Rescue 1122 dive team swiftly arrived at the location and began emergency rescue operations. The team efficiently rescued and transferred over 1,300 stranded individuals to safe locations, effectively preventing any major casualties. The swift response and professionalism of the Rescue 1122 team were highly appreciated by the public.
Bilal Ahmad Faizi, the official spokesperson for Rescue 1122 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, expressed his appreciation for the timely and coordinated efforts, stating:
“Rescue 1122’s team demonstrated exceptional professionalism in handling the situation with urgency and precision. Their quick actions played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the affected individuals. Our primary goal remains public safety, and we are always prepared to respond to natural disasters promptly.”
With the 14th of August holiday causing a large number of visitors, Rescue 1122 teams also evacuated people from nearby areas at risk of flooding, ensuring all were safely relocated. The efficient and timely rescue efforts have been commended by the public for their professionalism and dedication.
Rescue 1122 authorities urge the public to avoid approaching streams and rivers during heavy rainfall or floods to prevent potential hazards and accidents.
According to the GB government, three family members were killed and two others were injured when floods hit a village in the Hunza Khanabad area on Thursday.
Public Appeal: Citizens are advised to exercise caution and avoid venturing near rivers and streams during adverse weather conditions to prevent accidents and ensure personal safety.
